If you’re a bride on the hunt for a designer wedding gown at an incredible price, our Sample Sale is the event you’ve been waiting for! From December 6th to December 8th, we’ll be offering deep discounts on a selection of stunning off-the-rack dresses during our three-day sale. Whether you’re shopping on a budget or simply love a great deal, this is the perfect opportunity to find your dream gown for less.
Shopping a bridal sample sale is a bit different from a regular appointment, so we’ve put together this comprehensive guide with practical tips to help you prepare and make the most of your sample sale experience.
What is a Sample Sale?
A bridal sample sale is a special event where boutiques sell their floor sample dresses at a discounted price to make room for new collections. These gowns have been tried on by brides in-store but are still in great condition. The best part? You can score an amazing designer gown at a fraction of the cost.
Our sample sale includes a range of styles, sizes, and price points, so whether you're looking for a classic silhouette or a more modern romantic design, you’re bound to find something you love! Plus, you get to take home your dress the very same day!
Key Sale Dates to Remember
Sale Dates: December 6th - December 8th
Location: Our boutique! (103 E. College Ave Suite 103, Appleton, WI 54911)
By Appointment: Be sure to book your 1 hour appointment ahead of time.
Tips for Shopping Our Sample Sale
1. Set Your Budget
One of the biggest advantages of shopping a sample sale is the potential to score a designer gown at a reduced price. However, it’s still important to set a budget before you arrive. Most sample sale gowns will be priced at 40-60% off the original price, and our gowns typically range from $1,600 to $3,800.
Having a clear budget in mind will help you stay focused during your search, and we’ll have a variety of gowns to match different price ranges within the sale.
2. Know Your Wedding Date and Style
Sample sale dresses are sold off-the-rack, meaning you take them home the same day! Because of this, they’re ideal for brides who are closer to their wedding date and may not have time for lengthy alterations or custom orders. Make sure you have a good sense of your timeline and dress preferences before the sale begins.
While it’s great to stay open-minded, it’s helpful to come in knowing what silhouettes and styles you’re drawn to. Are you a fan of A-lines, ball gowns, or sleek mermaid dresses? Knowing what works for your body type and wedding vision will streamline your shopping experience.
3. Book Early (and Be Ready to Move Fast!)
Sample sales can get competitive! Since it’s a first-come, first-served appointment event, we recommend booking early to have the best selection of gowns. Once the sale begins, dresses go quickly, and you won’t want to miss out on finding your dream gown.
Sample sale shopping often requires quick decisions, so be prepared to make your choice without too much deliberation. If you fall in love with a dress, don’t hesitate—chances are, it could be gone if you wait too long!
4. Bring the Essentials
Unlike a traditional bridal appointment, a sample sale is more fast-paced and doesn’t always include time for the full “bridal entourage” experience. Here’s what we recommend bringing to ensure a smooth shopping day:
Proper Undergarments: Wear or bring a strapless bra and any shapewear you plan to use on your wedding day. This will help you get a better sense of how each gown fits.
Shoes with a Similar Heel Height: If you have a specific heel height in mind for your wedding, bring shoes of similar height to see how the dress falls.
1-2 Trusted Friends or Family Members: Sample sale shopping can be intense, and too many opinions may add pressure. Stick to a small, supportive group who will help you make a confident decision.
5. Know Your Size and Be Open to Alterations
Sample dresses come in a limited range of sizes, so it’s important to know your general size before you arrive. However, don’t worry if a gown isn’t an exact fit—many dresses can be altered to your body shape within reason.
Our sample sale will feature gowns in a variety of sizes, but keep in mind that it’s easier to take a dress in than to let it out. We’ll give you our list, but plan on finding a reputable seamstress to handle any adjustments you may need post-purchase.
6. Stay Flexible with Your Vision
While it’s important to know your style, keeping an open mind is key to sample sale success. You might find a dress that surprises you in the best way! Since you’ll be working with a limited selection of dresses, flexibility can lead to finding a gown that fits your body and your budget, even if it wasn’t exactly what you initially imagined.
Why Shop Our Sample Sale?
Exclusive Designer Gowns: Our boutique features a unique mix of exclusive designers, and many of the dresses available in the sample sale won’t be found anywhere else in the area.
Unbeatable Prices: This is your chance to snag a luxury gown at a price that fits within your budget.
Immediate Gratification: Unlike traditional orders, sample sale dresses are taken home the same day, so you can cross “find the dress” off your wedding to-do list in one swoop!
Personalized Service: Even though it’s a fast-paced event, our expert stylists will be on hand to assist you in finding the perfect gown. We’ll make sure the process is smooth and enjoyable, helping you navigate the selection to match your style and size needs.
Ready to Find Your Dream Gown?
Our Sample Sale is the perfect opportunity for brides who want a high-quality, designer gown without the designer price tag. With careful preparation and an open mind, you can walk away with the wedding dress of your dreams—at a price you’ll love!
Mark your calendars for December 6th to December 8th, and be sure to book your appointment early for the best selection. We can’t wait to help you find the one during our exclusive event. Let the dress shopping magic begin!
Want to be an Ivory Rose Bride? Let’s book your bridal appointment today
Ivory Rose Bridal Boutique is Appleton, Wisconsin’s bridal shop that takes celebrating seriously. We have made it our mission to bring our brides the best & latest wedding dresses, veils and other accessories from our favorite bridal designers. Every bit of what you experience with Ivory Rose has been intentionally curated to make you feel empowered & comfortable while saying Heck Yes! to your dream dress. Our passionate stylists support and uplift and are dedicated to creating your beautiful bridal experience.